RALEIGH PUSH WIRING REMEDIATION

You will find push wiring or push-in terminals in the back of household wall switches and outlets. You can identify push wiring by the series of holes in the back of the outlet or switch into which the bare end of the connecting wires are inserted. These were popular because they offered a fast, easy way to install a switch or outlet. However, professional, experienced electricians, like ours at Zar Electric, avoid this type of connection as it is prone to overheating and causing electrical fires.

Problems with push-in terminals include:

• Poor connections
• They are prone to overheating
• They are more likely to fail
• They can become loose very easily
• The clamps that hold the wire in place wear out easily

Today, you are more likely to find push wiring in older homes that have not been updated or where homeowners have performed DIY electrical services. In both cases, it is not recommended that you keep push-in terminals. Instead of push wiring, it is always recommended that you install screw terminals. Screw terminals are more stable, less prone to overheating, and because the connecting wire is wound around the screw, they provide a very stable, secure connection.

Most homeowners do not know whether or not they have push wiring connections installed. However, you can stay alert to potential problems that may indicate that existing push wiring is having a problem. You must pay attention to these issues if you also have aluminum wiring as it further compounds the issue.

Call our Raleigh push wiring remediation electricians if you notice any of the following:

• Flickering lights
• Scorch or burn marks on outlets
• Visible damage to outlets and switches
• Outlets and switches that are warm to the touch
• Outlets and switches that are hooked into your system but do not work
• Visibly loose outlets and switches

If you are unsure whether you have push-in terminals installed in your home, it is a good idea to schedule an electrical inspection with Zar Electric. We will go over your entire property, identify the wiring and connections you have, and help you remediate any issues.

If you own a commercial property, you should be just as concerned about push wiring as residential customers. This is especially the case with properties that employ on-site maintenance to handle small electrical issues, like replacing switches, instead of professional electricians. Additionally, if your commercial property was built in the 60s or 70s, you should have it inspected for aluminum wiring. Our Raleigh electricians have extensive experience working in both residential and commercial settings, and we can help you protect your property, your business, and your employees, tenants, and customers.

To begin your push wiring remediation project today, contact Zar Electric at (919) 200-6551.

There are times when a ceiling fan malfunction is not worth fixing. It is helpful to know when the most cost-effective solution is a replacement rather than a repair.

Replacing your fans might be a good idea if:

• The fan blades are moving slowly: Sometimes this happens if the components around the blades need to be cleaned or lubricated. If this does not solve the problem, your motor may be failing.
• The fan is not moving at all: You can check the wiring, the switch, and the connections for electrical issues first. Repairing those can be relatively simple. However, if the motor is broken, it is usually more cost-effective to replace the fan.
• The fan is buzzing: If the fan is making buzzing or humming noises, you may just need to reset the mounting or tighten up the screws. This may also be a sign that you need to clean (and if possible lubricate) the fan. The next step would be to check the wiring.
• The lights on the fan are malfunctioning: If your lights are dim or turning off, you probably have an issue with the wiring. Make sure you did not install your unit on a dimmer switch, which can cause damage to your unit.
• The fan is grinding: This usually indicates a problem with your ceiling fan motor. This is also usually a more expensive repair, and you should probably consider a replacement.

Request an estimate and schedule service at your home or business by calling 919-200-6551.